The first major city on the way to San Jose, is Santa Barbara. Considered the American Riviera, Santa Barbara is a coastal community that enjoys perfect weather all year long. You can drive out onto the Santa Barbara pier to enjoy seafood and cocktails while watching sailboats head out to sea. Don't worry if you didn't bring a bike because rentals are available to enjoy Santa Barbara’s meandering coastal bike path. Inland, State Street is the main shopping area featuring national chains and boutique stores side by side. History buffs should stop by the Santa Barbara Mission. Both a museum and a church, the Santa Barbara mission is considered one of the most beautiful missions in the state.
When Route 101 heads inland, keep your eyes open for Solvang. Located in wine country, the city of Solvang was settled by Danish immigrants in 1911. The architecture and facades of most of the city’s buildings reflect the traditional Danish style, making it one of the most unique towns in the country. The Danish presence is still felt with dozens of Danish-themed restaurants, hotels and shops. The town even has a windmill. The annual Danish Days celebration is held the third weekend in September. Located within walking distance of downtown Solvang is the Mission Santa Ines, an important link in California’s historic Mission system. Solvang is the gateway to most of the region’s vineyards, many of which offer tours and tastings.
Route 101 heads back to the coast after passing Santa Maria and passes through the beach community of Pismo Beach. Once the self-proclaimed "Clam Capitol of the World," the city continues to honor the tasty bivalve with a festival every October including clam chowder competitions and a clam-themed parade. The area is often called the "Five Cities," referring to the neighboring communities of Arroyo Grande, Grover City, Oceano, Shell Beach and Pismo. In Shell Beach you'll be amazed by the sheer cliffs that fall into the Pacific. At low tide, walk down the stairs to explore the sea life within the many tidal pools. Grover Beach is one of the more unique beaches in the state that allows vehicles to drive on the hard packed sand. The beach in Oceano also offers vehicle access, but at this beach you can ride the dunes in a classic California dune buggy. If you're looking for a zoo, Pismo has something even better -- a butterfly grove. The Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove sees thousands of orange and black monarch butterflies return to the area each year, seeking shelter in the limbs of a eucalyptus grove near the shore.
As you head north from Pismo you will enter an area of the state made famous in print by John Steinbeck who penned “Of Mice and Men” and “Cannery Row” from his home in Salinas. Fans of Steinbeck will want to make their way to the National Steinbeck Center, which celebrates the well-known author's work through multisensory exhibits. The museum houses priceless artifacts and offers live theater performances. The heritage of Salinas' roots can be seen in Oldtown, a restored historic district of the city. The area is home to dozens of restaurants, taverns and boutiques. Before visiting Oldtown or any of the attractions, stop by the Visitor Center on Main Street for maps and information
The aroma of Gilroy will hit you before you actually see the small agricultural community about an hour south of San Jose. Known as the "Garlic Capital of the World," Gilroy exudes the pungent smell of the tasty root, especially after harvest. Gilroy is one of the largest producers of garlic in the world and the community is proud of its odoriferous heritage. The Gilroy Garlic Festival, celebrated in late July each year, features various garlicky foods, including garlic ice cream, arts and crafts and wine tastings. Another reason to make a pit stop in Gilroy is the Gilroy Premium Outlets, which feature over 140 outlets from some of the most popular stores in the nation. If the kids don't care for shopping or garlic-laden food, a trip to Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park should make them smile. The gardens feature tame and fun children's rides centered on the agriculture industry. Take a ride on the Artichoke Dip, the mushroom swing and be sure to climb inside a giant clove of garlic for the Garlic Twirl. The park is open year-round.
